Article By Sane Mbhense
ULUNDI: The Operation Siyahlola service delivery journey continues as the MEC for Human Settlements and Public Works, Mr Sipho “KK” Nkosi puts the pedal to the metal.
Recently, the MEC on his tight schedule of government programmes spent a day visiting a pair of critical community development projects.
This was done in an intention to monitor latest developments registered in the process and also overcome any challenges which might present unwarranted obstacles while such projects are underway.
The view of the world class project at Mathole High School in Edlebe
On Thursday, 28 September 2023, the MEC selflessly led a delegation of technical experts as part of his service delivery drive to gauge progress on projects which are currently taking place in the North Coast Region.
Projects visited included a new generational academic public institution, the Edlebe-based Mathole High School (MHS) followed by Nkonjeni Hospital, a government healthcare facility situated in the Mahlabathini rural village, a few kilometers away from the Ulundi central business district.
A formal MEC's briefing session was held at a-R37 million MHS world-class project site which boasts a myriad of technologically advanced Teaching and Learning features required to address specific curriculum needs in any modern classroom setup.
As part of the day's programme, the contractor on site, assured the MEC that, the school will be ready for the year-end examinations as the progress status is currently sitting at 97% towards completion.
It also came to light that, there is a cordial working relationship between the surrounding communities and all the relevant stakeholders who are part of this community development project.
A Computer Laboratory and Library facilities installed at the Mathole High School, Edlebe area - Ulundi
MEC Nkosi extended a word of appreciation to all Educators and relevant communities for preserving the name of INkosi Mathole Buthelezi by naming the school after him.
He emphasised that, the government of the day subscribes to the notion of a speedy and efficient service delivery which is in line with the tenets of the Freedom Charter coupled with National Development Plan (NDP).
Later during the course of the day, the MEC together with his delegation proceeded to the Nkonjeni Hospital, where the KZN Department of Public Works (DPW) is working on the reconfiguration process of the existing Maternity Building which consists of a number of specialised wards designed for that particular purpose.
The MEC did not hesitate to raise his concerns around delayed completion of projects. He further alluded to the fact that, the DPW as the Implementing Agent of Choice is not in a position to tolerate contractors with inadequate capacity to complete government projects timeously as per the prescribed project specifications.
Giving the ultimate finger-wagging lecture for the day, the MEC was quoted as saying, "We want the work done."